Lateral propriospinal tract

Lateral propriospinal tract is a bundle of nerve fibers located within the spinal cord. It is part of the propriospinal system, which consists of short and long interneurons that interconnect different levels of the spinal cord. The lateral propriospinal tract plays a crucial role in the coordination of movement and the integration of sensory and motor functions across different segments of the spinal cord.

Function

The primary function of the lateral propriospinal tract is to mediate communication between the neurons in the upper and lower segments of the spinal cord. This tract enables the coordination of movements, especially those that require the involvement of multiple limbs or segments of the body. It is involved in the reflex adjustments of posture and locomotion, allowing for smooth and coordinated movements.

Anatomy

The lateral propriospinal tract is located in the lateral column of the spinal cord, extending from the cervical to the lumbar regions. It contains both ascending and descending fibers, which allow it to transmit signals in both directions along the spinal cord. The neurons within this tract are known as propriospinal neurons, and they have their cell bodies located within the gray matter of the spinal cord. Their axons can extend for several segments above and below their origin, forming connections with other neurons, including motor neurons and sensory relay neurons.

Clinical Significance

Damage to the lateral propriospinal tract can result in a variety of neurological symptoms, depending on the location and extent of the injury. Such damage may impair the coordination of movements and affect the ability to perform tasks that require the integration of actions across different parts of the body. Understanding the function and pathology of the lateral propriospinal tract is important in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal cord injuries and diseases that affect motor function.

See Also

• Spinal cord
• Neuron
• Motor neuron
• Sensory neuron
• Reflex arc